Golden State Foods announces that it acquired a McDonald’s distribution center in Lebanon, Illinois, (near St. Louis, Missouri), from Gateway Distribution.

The facility services more than 350 McDonald’s restaurants in five states: Illinois, Missouri, Iowa, Indiana, and Kentucky. The facility employs approximately 160 associates, which increases GSF’s total associate count to nearly 4,500 worldwide. GSF services more than 25,000 stores in 50 countries from its 38 locations on four continents. With this acquisition, GSF’s annual sales are nearly $6 billion.

“We are looking forward to combining the long-standing traditions established by Gateway with GSF’s and continuing our strong partnership with McDonald’s as we expand our company throughout the Midwest,” says Mark Wetterau, chairman and CEO of Golden State Foods. “We value Bill Dowling, president and CEO of Gateway, and all the Gateway associates for their outstanding accomplishments and efforts over the years. We are excited to work with all of the associates, as well as the McDonald’s owner/operators and suppliers in the surrounding markets. We wish Bill continued success in his retirement.”

“I’m proud of the accomplishments of the entire Gateway Distribution Team,” adds Dowling. “Gateway Distribution has been a leader in providing service to the McDonald’s System, and I fully expect this to continue as part of the outstanding Golden State Foods organization.

“Golden State Foods has a similar value system and focus on customer satisfaction. My hope is for the continued success of the Gateway Distribution Team, Mark Wetterau, and Golden State Foods.”

The acquisition occurred to maximize efficiencies and strengthen the distribution network within the McDonald’s system.